Apps like Deliveroo and Uber Eats are transforming the restaurant sector, becoming the first port of call for hungry diners. Nearly two thirds (64 per cent) said they look at online delivery services when ordering food, whereas just 16 per cent check the restaurant's own site.

But James Moir, managing director of Nectar, said restaurant businesses need not despair because the amount of information they have about customers means they can offer specific experiences.

“Ultimately, diners now have more choice, so restaurants need to respond," he said. "They will be even more keenly judged on value, quality and service. With so much data from online and in-restaurant purchases now at their fingertips, restaurants can know their customers better than ever before."

Young consumers are leading the charge, with 55 per cent of 18-34 year olds saying they used food delivery apps in the last three months.

But the biggest take-up is among those with children, 56 per cent of whom relied on the convenience of delivery compared to 30 per cent without children.